Operation Smile

Before showing Evelyn her baby, her doctor gently explained that Juan Manuel had been born with a lip, but informed her that was possible.

Knowing private surgery was out of reach, Evelyn took Juan Manuel to a clinic she was told offered free surgeries. Once there, however, she learned there was a long waiting list and added his name.

About a year later, Evelyn learned about Operation Smile from a friend and found out about an upcoming surgical program in Santo Domingo. She obtained the contact information for Operation Smile Dominican Republic from the hospital and called to learn more about the program.

After a comprehensive health evaluation, Juan Manuel was scheduled for surgery. Evelyn was so happy that their wait was over and was overjoyed when she saw the change in Juan Manuel’s smile after surgery.

Today, Juan Manuel is a happy, loves school and has lots of friends.

Visit operationsmile.org to help create new smiles and brighter futures for children like Juan Manuel.

Denis and Damaris knew they were expecting twins, but when Steven Jeovanny was born, they learned he had a lip and palate. Doctors reassured them that was possible. Ninety minutes later, his twin brother, Steven Santiago, was born without a cleft condition.

At 1 month old, Damaris brought Steven Jeovanny to Operation Smile Honduras in Tegucigalpa, where the medical team provided feeding guidance and used lip taping to help him eat and get to a healthy weight.

Four months later, after a comprehensive medical evaluation, Steven Jeovanny was cleared and scheduled for surgery. Following the successful procedure, his parents did not immediately recognize him; they were so amazed by his transformation.

Back home, family and friends were thrilled to see the difference. Steven Jeovanny quickly gained weight and soon caught up in size with his twin brother.

Your support helps more children like Steven Jeovanny access safe surgery and comprehensive care. Visit operationsmile.org to help create more smiles and brighter futures.